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Look beyond the price tag before you buy

September 21, 2026
Blogs

Using tablet. Woman is in autosalon at daytime.

When you’re shopping for a vehicle, it’s easy to compare the obvious things.  The price. The mileage. The features. The monthly payment. But those details only tell part of the story. A used vehicle’s history can reveal details you won’t find on the price tag or in an online listing. Going beyond the price and online listing is what will help you decide whether the vehicle is right for you. That’s why dealers are required to share certain facts and information about a vehicle’s history, known as disclosures, before you sign a contract. 

The word “disclosure” might sound like legal jargon, but the idea is simple: it’s required information that helps you better understand the vehicle you’re considering. 

  • Has it been used as a daily rental?  
  • Has it been in an accident?  
  • Was it an insurance write off?

  • Has it been registered outside of Ontario in the last seven years? 

 These are the kinds of details that may not be obvious during a test drive, but they can influence your decision. A disclosure isn’t a warning not to buy a vehicle. It’s mandatory information to help you make an informed decision. Think of it this way: if you were buying a house, you’d want to know about previous flooding or major repairs before making an offer.  Buying a vehicle is no different. Understanding its history gives you a clearer picture of what you’re buying. 

A vehicle history report can help you build that picture. It may include information about previous collisions, registration history, odometer readings and other details about the vehicle’s past.   Review the report and compare it with what the dealer has told you and the disclosures provided in writing. If something doesn’t match, or you see something you don’t understand, ask questions before you sign. 

A vehicle history report may not tell you everything about a used vehicle, but it can help you understand its history, know what questions to ask and identify potential red flags. 

That’s why it’s important to do more than simply receive the information. Take the time to review it and understand what it means. Be sure to ask questions if you’re unsure.

  • How could this affect the vehicle? 
  • Should it influence the price? 
  • What does it mean for future maintenance or resale value? 

The more you understand before you buy, the more confident you’ll feel about the decision you’re making. 

Over the coming weeks, OMVIC will be breaking down some of the most misunderstood information consumers receive when buying a vehicle and explaining what it means before you sign.  

Follow OMVIC on Facebook or Instagram, or sign up for our monthly consumer newsletter for practical tips to help you make informed car-buying decisions. We’ll explain, in plain language, what they mean, why they’re important, and the questions you should ask before you sign. Because buying a vehicle shouldn’t feel like decoding fine print. The information you’re given is there for a reason. Understanding it can help you make a more informed decision. 

Look twice. Buy smart. Worry less.